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"While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about."

                                                                                                                        ~Angela Schwindt

What most kids do at this age: 18 Months
 
Social and Emotional:
  • Likes to hand things to others as play 

  • May have temper tantrums 

  • May be afraid of strangers 

  • Shows affection to familiar people 

  • Plays simple pretend, such as feeding a doll 

  • May cling to caregivers in new situations 

  • Points to show others something interesting 

  • Explores alone but with parent close by 

 
Language/Communication:
  • Says several single words 

  • Says and shakes head “no” 

  • Points to show someone what he wants 

  • ​

Cognitive (learning, thinking, problem-solving)
  • Knows what ordinary things are for; for example, telephone, brush, spoon 

  • Points to get the attention of others 

  • Shows interest in a doll or stuffed animal by pretending to feed 

  • Points to one body part 

  • Scribbles on his own 

  • Can follow 1-step verbal commands without any gestures; for example, sits when you say “sit down” 

 
Movement/Physical Development
  • Walks alone 

  • May walk up steps and run 

  • Pulls toys while walking 

  • Can help undress herself 

  • Drinks from a cup 

  • Eats with a spoon 

 

Act early by talking to your child’s doctor if your child:

  • Doesn’t point to show things to others

  • Can’t walk

  • Doesn’t know what familiar things are for

  • Doesn’t copy others

  • Doesn’t gain new words

  • Doesn’t have at least 6 words

  • Doesn’t notice or mind when a caregiver leaves or returns

  • Loses skills he once had

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Courtesy of CDC Website: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/milestones-18mo.html

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